When Ashleigh Plumptre received an offer from Saudi Arabia in 2023, her immediate reaction was a firm no.
The Leicester City defender — thoughtful, articulate, and never afraid to take an unconventional path — was nearing the end of her contract with her childhood club. She wanted something more than just football: a sense of belonging, purpose, and growth as a person.
Yet, after conversations with Al-Ittihad’s management and a short visit to Jeddah, the Nigerian international made a bold move — becoming the first Women’s Super League (WSL) player to join the Saudi Women’s Premier League (SWPL). Two years on, she has signed an extension, even as she continues to challenge Western narratives about life as a female athlete in the kingdom.
‘My First Instinct Was No’
Plumptre, now 27, admits her decision was far from easy. “I spoke to teams in the UK, US, and Europe. Then Dad said there’s a team in Saudi interested. I was shocked. My first instinct was no. But I wanted to give them a chance,” she told BBC Sport.
After an hour-long conversation with Al-Ittihad’s coach and management, she felt a genuine connection. “We barely talked football — it was about values, passions, and people. I’m guided by intuition, and when I visited Jeddah, I just knew this is where I wanted to be.”
The SWPL, launched in 2022, is still in its infancy. Funded by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), it offers salaries between $60,000 and $120,000 — tax-free. For Plumptre, however, the draw was not financial. It was the challenge.
‘I Deeply Hurt People’
Her move, however, stirred controversy. In women’s football — known for its inclusivity and strong LGBT support — her choice to play in a country where same-sex relations are illegal felt like betrayal to some fans.
“I remember some of the comments after I left Leicester — people said I wasn’t the person they thought I was. That hurt. I know I deeply hurt some who felt I was aligning with something that made them feel devalued. I understand that, and it stays with me,” Plumptre said quietly.
“It doesn’t mean I condone certain things, even if people think my move associates me with them.”
‘Saudi Life Is Like a Peace Bubble’
Plumptre says life in Jeddah has brought her calm and safety she rarely felt in England.
“I can leave my car running with the keys inside while unloading groceries — something I’d never do back home. Many of us describe it as a peace bubble. I know my experience isn’t everyone’s, but I feel safe here.”
Since 2018, Saudi women have been allowed to drive and travel independently, though human rights groups note that guardianship laws still exist in practice.
“I don’t feel threatened here. Men are taught to treat women with respect, and there are consequences if they don’t,” she said.
‘We Don’t Have Many Fans Yet’
While star players like Asisat Oshoala, Kheira Hamraoui, and Amel Majri have joined the SWPL, Plumptre admits the league still faces hurdles — from limited crowds to varying player quality.
“The pace is slower, so we have to push harder to maintain standards. The facilities are improving — we now have our own gym, medical clinic, and locker room — but fan engagement remains low.”
Most matches are played in small stadiums with sparse attendance. “We need community outreach — families, schools, free tickets — the things that helped grow the WSL,” she explained.
‘It’s About the Process, Not the Rush’
With Saudi Arabia set to host the men’s 2034 World Cup, talk has emerged of a future women’s bid. But Plumptre remains pragmatic.
“In the near future, no — it’s too soon. The focus should be on development and sustainability. If you put a team on a stage they’re not ready for, it’s unfair to them and the game.”
For Plumptre, the journey in Saudi Arabia is not about image but impact — to help build something lasting, even if imperfect.
“I just want to take small, meaningful steps that matter,” she says — a statement that sums up not just her move, but her mindset.
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